Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Helicopters, 29183-29185 [2021-11392]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 103 / Tuesday, June 1, 2021 / Rules and Regulations (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective June 16, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020– 0218, dated October 12, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0218). (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a determination that the cabin swift broadband antenna doubler installation does not meet widespread fatigue damage (WFD) requirements. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the potential effects of WFD on the installation. This condition, if not corrected, could reduce the structural integrity of the fuselage. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Requirements Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, EASA AD 2020–0218. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0218 (1) Where EASA AD 2020–0218 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2020–0218 does not apply to this AD. (3) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2020– 0218 specifies actions if ‘‘any discrepancy is detected,’’ for this AD a ‘‘discrepancy’’ is defined as any crack, oversized hole, corrosion, or other damage. (4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2020– 0218 specifies to ‘‘contact Airbus for applicable corrective actions,’’ if corrective actions are associated with cracking, the cracking must be repaired before further flight using a method approved by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or responsible Flight VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 May 28, 2021 Jkt 253001 Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3223; email sanjay.ralhan@ faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0218, dated October 12, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2020–0218, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at https:// ad.easa.europa.eu. (4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. This material may be found in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0367. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 29183 (5) You may view this material that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@ nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/ federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued on May 7, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–11428 Filed 5–28–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0126; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00266–R; Amendment 39–21556; AD 2021–10–23] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB–BK 117 D–2 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a broken Titanium (Ti) bolt. This AD requires removing certain Ti-bolts from service and prohibits installing these Tibolts in a critical area. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 6, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of July 6, 2021. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232– 0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https:// www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/ technical-support.html. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0126. SUMMARY: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by E:\FR\FM\01JNR1.SGM 01JNR1 29184 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 103 / Tuesday, June 1, 2021 / Rules and Regulations searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0126; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any service information that is incorporated by reference, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. a critical location, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. Accordingly, EASA AD 2019–0258 requires a one-time inspection for Tibolt P/N EN3740–060022F marked with manufacturer monogram ‘‘D’’ or with an illegible manufacturer monogram installed on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball bearing control (ball bearing control) and, depending on findings, contacting AHD for corrective action. EASA AD 2019–0258 also prohibits the (re)installation of these Ti-bolts. Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. Comments The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the costs. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES Background The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB– BK 117 D–2 helicopters with a Ti-bolt part number (P/N) EN3740–060022F marked with manufacturer monogram ‘‘D’’ or with an illegible manufacturer monogram, installed on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball bearing control. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 3, 2021 (86 FR 12294). In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require removing any affected Ti-bolt P/N EN3740–060022F from service. The NPRM also to prohibit installing an affected Ti-bolt on the aft connection of the ball bearing control of any helicopter. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2019–0258, dated October 18, 2019 (EASA AD 2019–0258), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD), formerly Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH, Model MBB–BK117 D–2 helicopters. EASA advises of a report of a broken Ti-bolt. Subsequent investigation revealed that an improper heat treatment process was accomplished on a batch of Ti-bolts, which can lead to hydrogen embrittlement. Hydrogen embrittlement can make high-strength bolts susceptible to stress corrosion, pitting, and failure. EASA states that this condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of an affected Ti-bolt installed in VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 May 28, 2021 Jkt 253001 Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Conclusion These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA about the unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these helicopters. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB– BK117 D–2–00A–001, Revision 1, dated October 16, 2019, which specifies replacing each Ti-bolt P/N EN3740– 060022F that is marked with manufacturer monogram ‘‘D’’ or if the manufacturer monogram cannot be identified with an airworthy Ti-bolt in both locations of the aft connection of ball bearing control and both high frequency (HF) antenna bracket locations. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD EASA AD 2019–0258 applies to Model MBB–BK117 D–2 helicopters and requires inspecting for Ti-bolt P/N EN3740–060022F marked with manufacturer monogram ‘‘D’’ or with an illegible manufacturer monogram installed on the aft connection of the ball bearing control. This AD applies to Model MBB–BK 117 D–2 helicopters with a Ti-bolt P/N EN3740–060022F marked with manufacturer monogram PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 ‘‘D’’ or with an illegible manufacturer monogram installed on the aft connection of the ball bearing control instead. EASA AD 2019–0258 requires contacting AHD for approved instructions if an affected Ti-bolt is found, whereas this AD requires removing an affected Ti-bolt from service instead. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 29 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD. Replacing a Ti-bolt takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost about $100 for an estimated cost of $270 per Ti-bolt. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on helicopters identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. E:\FR\FM\01JNR1.SGM 01JNR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 103 / Tuesday, June 1, 2021 / Rules and Regulations List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. (c) of this AD on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball bearing control of any helicopter. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ 2021–10–23 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD): Amendment 39–21556; Docket No. FAA–2021–0126; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00266–R. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective July 6, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB–BK 117 D–2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a Titanium (Ti) bolt part number EN3740–060022F marked with manufacturer monogram ‘‘D’’ or with an illegible manufacturer monogram, installed on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball bearing control. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Codes: 1430, Fasteners; and 6720, Tail Rotor Control System. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a Ti-bolt with hydrogen embrittlement. This condition could result in failure of the tail rotor ball bearing control Ti-bolt and subsequent loss of tail rotor control. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service or 3 months, whichever occurs first, remove any Ti-bolt identified in paragraph (c) of this AD, located on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball bearing rod end (item 5) and at the input lever (item 2) as shown in Figure 1 to Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–00A–001, Revision 1, dated October 16, 2019, from service. (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a Ti-bolt identified in paragraph VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 May 28, 2021 Jkt 253001 (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (i) Related Information (j) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–00A– 001, Revision 1, dated October 16, 2019. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https:// www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/ technical-support.html. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Issued on May 7, 2021. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–11392 Filed 5–28–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0097; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01334–T; Amendment 39–21559; AD 2021–10–26] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: (1) For more information about this AD, contact Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222– 5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019–0258, dated October 18, 2019. You may view the EASA AD at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA– 2021–0126. PO 00000 29185 Sfmt 4700 The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc., Model BD–100–1A10 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of DC motor pump (DCMP) failures during production flight tests. This AD requires installing a redesigned DCMP electric motor assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 6, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 6, 2021. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Bombardier, Inc., 200 Coˆte-Vertu Road West, Dorval, Que´bec H4S 2A3, Canada; North America toll-free telephone 1–866–538–1247 or direct-dial telephone 1–514–855–2999; email ac.yul@aero.bombardier.com; internet https://www.bombardier.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0097. SUMMARY: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0097; or in person at Docket Operations E:\FR\FM\01JNR1.SGM 01JNR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 103 (Tuesday, June 1, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 29183-29185]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-11392]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0126; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00266-R; 
Amendment 39-21556; AD 2021-10-23]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
(AHD) Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 
helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a broken Titanium (Ti) 
bolt. This AD requires removing certain Ti-bolts from service and 
prohibits installing these Ti-bolts in a critical area. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective July 6, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of July 6, 2021.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; 
or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may view the referenced service information at the 
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood 
Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available at 
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2021-0126.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by

[[Page 29184]]

searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0126; or in person at 
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the 
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any service 
information that is incorporated by reference, any comments received, 
and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is U.S. 
Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building 
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 
20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, 
General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, Airworthiness Products Section, 
Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 
76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters 
Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters with a Ti-bolt 
part number (P/N) EN3740-060022F marked with manufacturer monogram 
``D'' or with an illegible manufacturer monogram, installed on the aft 
connection of the tail rotor ball bearing control. The NPRM published 
in the Federal Register on March 3, 2021 (86 FR 12294). In the NPRM, 
the FAA proposed to require removing any affected Ti-bolt P/N EN3740-
060022F from service. The NPRM also to prohibit installing an affected 
Ti-bolt on the aft connection of the ball bearing control of any 
helicopter. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2019-0258, dated October 
18, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0258), issued by EASA, which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe 
condition for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD), formerly 
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH, Model MBB-BK117 D-2 helicopters. EASA 
advises of a report of a broken Ti-bolt. Subsequent investigation 
revealed that an improper heat treatment process was accomplished on a 
batch of Ti-bolts, which can lead to hydrogen embrittlement. Hydrogen 
embrittlement can make high-strength bolts susceptible to stress 
corrosion, pitting, and failure. EASA states that this condition, if 
not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of an affected Ti-
bolt installed in a critical location, possibly resulting in reduced 
control of the helicopter.
    Accordingly, EASA AD 2019-0258 requires a one-time inspection for 
Ti-bolt P/N EN3740-060022F marked with manufacturer monogram ``D'' or 
with an illegible manufacturer monogram installed on the aft connection 
of the tail rotor ball bearing control (ball bearing control) and, 
depending on findings, contacting AHD for corrective action. EASA AD 
2019-0258 also prohibits the (re)installation of these Ti-bolts.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the costs.

Conclusion

    These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral 
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA about the 
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA reviewed the relevant 
data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as 
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these helicopters.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB 
MBB-BK117 D-2-00A-001, Revision 1, dated October 16, 2019, which 
specifies replacing each Ti-bolt P/N EN3740-060022F that is marked with 
manufacturer monogram ``D'' or if the manufacturer monogram cannot be 
identified with an airworthy Ti-bolt in both locations of the aft 
connection of ball bearing control and both high frequency (HF) antenna 
bracket locations.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    EASA AD 2019-0258 applies to Model MBB-BK117 D-2 helicopters and 
requires inspecting for Ti-bolt P/N EN3740-060022F marked with 
manufacturer monogram ``D'' or with an illegible manufacturer monogram 
installed on the aft connection of the ball bearing control. This AD 
applies to Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters with a Ti-bolt P/N EN3740-
060022F marked with manufacturer monogram ``D'' or with an illegible 
manufacturer monogram installed on the aft connection of the ball 
bearing control instead. EASA AD 2019-0258 requires contacting AHD for 
approved instructions if an affected Ti-bolt is found, whereas this AD 
requires removing an affected Ti-bolt from service instead.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 29 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on 
these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with 
this AD.
    Replacing a Ti-bolt takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost about 
$100 for an estimated cost of $270 per Ti-bolt.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on helicopters identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

[[Page 29185]]

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive:

2021-10-23 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD): Amendment 39-
21556; Docket No. FAA-2021-0126; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00266-
R.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective July 6, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) 
Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with 
a Titanium (Ti) bolt part number EN3740-060022F marked with 
manufacturer monogram ``D'' or with an illegible manufacturer 
monogram, installed on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball 
bearing control.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Codes: 1430, Fasteners; 
and 6720, Tail Rotor Control System.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a Ti-bolt with hydrogen embrittlement. 
This condition could result in failure of the tail rotor ball 
bearing control Ti-bolt and subsequent loss of tail rotor control.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service or 3 months, whichever 
occurs first, remove any Ti-bolt identified in paragraph (c) of this 
AD, located on the aft connection of the tail rotor ball bearing rod 
end (item 5) and at the input lever (item 2) as shown in Figure 1 to 
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-00A-
001, Revision 1, dated October 16, 2019, from service.
    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a Ti-
bolt identified in paragraph (c) of this AD on the aft connection of 
the tail rotor ball bearing control of any helicopter.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send 
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(1) of 
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(i) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Matt Fuller, AD 
Program Manager, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, Airworthiness 
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood 
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email 
[email protected].
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019-0258, dated October 18, 2019. 
You may view the EASA AD at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket 
No. FAA-2021-0126.

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB-BK117 
D-2-00A-001, Revision 1, dated October 16, 2019.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; 
telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; or 
at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on May 7, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-11392 Filed 5-28-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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